Abstract
Purpose: :
Although the yellow colored blue light–filter IOL is commonly used in cataract surgery, the use of this type of IOL in combined cataract with vitrectomy has not been reported yet. We designed a prospective, randomized clinical trial evaluating the effect of the yellow tint of the blue light filter IOL on the visualization of the posterior segment, on the surgeon’s ability to perform specific vitreoretinal procedures and on the patients outcome.
Methods: :
The study was planned to include a total of 60 patients, starting in October 2004. The patients included were randomly assigned to receive 30 white UV–filter IOLs (white IOL group) and 30 yellow blue light–filter IOLs (yellow IOL group). Main outcome measures in the yellow IOL group were intraoperative conditions for the surgeon as evaluated using a scaled questionnaire. Additional outcome measures in both IOL groups were intra– and postoperative complication rates as well as the functional outcome. For comparison of the functional outcome in the two IOL groups, the patients were matched according to diagnosis and baseline distance visual acuity.
Results: :
Questionnaire responses showed that the yellow blue light–filter IOL did not interfere with the light source or the endolaser photocoagulation. The yellow tint of the lens was noted by the surgeons but did not impede the view of the retina or change the operative set up or procedure. No intraoperative complications were encountered in both groups. Postoperative complications occurred in one patient in the white IOL group and in two patients in the yellow IOL group. Patients in both groups showed comparable functional results with respect to visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, color vision and glare effect (p>0.05).
Conclusions: :
The yellow blue light–filter IOL in combined cataract surgery with vitrectomy has no adverse effect on the surgeon’s ability to perform specific vitreoretinal procedures or on the patients outcome. With evidence proved data that the blue light is an important variable in age–related macular degeneration (ARMD), the yellow blue light–filter IOL could rapidly become the standard in cataract surgery, which underlines the importance of evaluating its’ role in subsequent or combined vitreoretinal procedures.
Keywords: vitreoretinal surgery • intraocular lens • cataract